In fact, BCH is a website freely accessible to all users, with global access to a wide range of scientific, technical, environmental, legal and capacity building information in the six official languages of the United Nations. BCH accomplishes its mission by providing a dynamic platform where users can register information and can be easily searched and retrieved.
Who does BCH serve? The Biosafety Clearinghouse (BCH) provides free access to all users. Here are some examples of the different ways people are using BCH.
For governments and risk assessors, much of the information in BCH is owned and updated by governments. It can be used to assist in making informed decisions regarding the import or release of LMOs.
For civil society, BCH promotes transparency in biosecurity decision-making, allowing easy and open access to key information, which facilitates the effective participation of the public and NGOs in the decision-making process.
For scientists and academia, BCH facilitates scientific and technological cooperation by allowing users to contribute or access biosafety-related information, and by facilitating coordination and synergy among various initiatives.
For industry, BCH provides easy access to important information related to import and export, including details of country contacts, relevant laws and regulations, and decisions and statements regarding the use and handling of LMOs.